“Homosexual” Or “gay” (Press, 4 July 1978)
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Summary: “Homosexual” Or “gay” (Press, 4 July 1978)
In a letter published on 4 July 1978, Kevin Fitzgerald critiques a viewpoint regarding the terminology used to describe homosexuality, specifically addressing the preference for the term “homosexual” over “gay.” He argues that the term “homosexual” reduces individuals to their sexual identity, implying a lack of multidimensionality. In contrast, Fitzgerald asserts that the term “gay” embodies a choice for sympathy and tolerance, reflecting a more nuanced self-identification for members of the LGBTQ+ community. Fitzgerald draws a parallel between the words “gay” and “homosexual” to the terms “black” and “negro,” emphasising that the latter was originally imposed by oppressors and is now largely rejected by the community it describes. He suggests that using the term “homosexual” disregards the preferences of the New Zealand gay community, who favour the term “gay.” He concludes by advocating for respect towards the terminology that the community prefers to identify with. In a response to Fitzgerald’s letter, the editor clarifies that the original comment regarding the terms did not express a preference but merely observed the different reactions to the words.
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